Briefs: 'Raising Resilient Kids' workshops coming

"Raising Resilient Kids," a free one-session parent education workshop for parents and caregivers of children of all ages, is offered in five areas of Washington County in January, February and March.

Bob Downs, family therapist, will discuss the skills children need, the core components of resilient families, and how parents can rear children to face challenges, bounce back from adversity and learn lifelong lessons. Downs has worked with families, adolescents and young adults for 30 years. His latest project, "Family Strengths Mapping," is a resource for parents to help children develop resiliency skills against future challenges.

BAYPORT

City recognizes girl for bravery on bus

A 12-year-old Oak-Land Junior High School student has received a letter of commendation and a lifesaving award from the City of Bayport for her role in helping a bus driver who had a medical emergency.

Rana Kraftson, a Bayport resident, and eight other members of the Stillwater Area High School Nordic Ski Team were riding to practice when the driver fell unconscious. Rana braked the bus to a stop and used the radio to call for help.

"Rana's common sense and quick action ensured the safety of her fellow students and assisted in getting swift medical aid to the bus driver," the city said in the commendation issued last week.

The incident occurred Dec. 11 near the school.

OAK PARK HEIGHTS

New mayor has a role on national committee

Mary McComber of Oak Park Heights, elected the city's mayor in November, has been appointed vice chair of the National League of Cities' Transportation Infrastructure and Services Committee in 2013.

The committee is responsible for developing policy positions on issues involving transportation -- including planning, funding, safety and security -- of public transit, streets and highways, aviation, railroads and ports.

The League of Cities represents 19,000 cities, towns and villages.

McComber, a longtime City Council member, defeated incumbent Mayor David Beaudet.

WOODBURY

City plans programs for preschoolers

Preschoolers can burn energy, learn new skills and meet new friends at programs being offered by the Woodbury Parks and Recreation Department. They include:

ST. CROIX REGION

Interested in learning more about the St. Croix Valley's national park?

The National Park Service will explore the heritage and natural wonders of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway during this year's Riverway Speaker Series.

The series kicks off on Jan. 19 at 10 a.m. with a program, "Lake Sturgeon in the Upper St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers." It will be presented by Jeffrey Kampa, fish research scientist at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

The presentation is free and open to the public. It will take place at the St. Croix River Visitor Center, 401 N. Hamilton St. in St. Croix Falls, Wis. To reserve up to four seats, call 1-715-483-2274.

LAKE ELMO

Popular cafe named Beef Backer winner

The Lake Elmo Inn has received the 2013 Beef Backer Award for the metropolitan restaurant category, the Minnesota Beef Council announced recently.

Lange's Café in Pipestone was honored in the rural community restaurant category. Both restaurants are family owned and operated.

The Lake Elmo Inn has been in existence since 1881, when it was opened as a place for railroad workers.

Chef John Schiltz's menu includes bone-in ribeye, New York strip, prime rib, T-bone and the restaurant's signature "Elmo Sirloin," featured on "steak night."

"The Beef Backer program is our way of recognizing those establishments that exhibit leadership and versatility with beef," said Colleen Zenk, director of nutrition and consumer information for the Minnesota Beef Council.

stillwater

City seeks volunteer for planning board

Applications are being accepted for an opening on the Planning Commission, which meets monthly, said City Planner Mike Pogge.

The commission usually meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. This is a volunteer position appointed by the City Council, he said.

The Planning Commission acts as the city's planning agency. It conducts public hearings on applications for special-use permits, conditional-use permits, variances to the zoning ordinance, subdivision and other areas that are covered by the city's zoning ordinance. It consists of nine members who serve for three years.

Stillwater's city website at www.ci.stillwater.mn.us has more information, or potential applicants can call 651-430-8800, Pogge said. Applications are also available at the City Hall.

Morrissey, a pediatrician who completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic, was recognized for his long commitment to Lakeview Hospital and to the St. Croix Valley community. He practices at the Stillwater Medical Group Main Campus.

Haland is a family medicine physician who completed his residency at United Family Medicine Program. He was recognized for his commitment to Lakeview Hospital leadership and the community. He practices at Lakeview Hospital.